China Delivers First Domestically Built Dual-Fuel Ro-Ro Ship ‘GNV·VIRGO’

China has delivered its first domestically built large-scale dual-fuel roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) passenger ship, GNV·VIRGO, in the southern port city of Guangzhou on 23 October 2025.

The newly built vessel can operate on both conventional fuel and cleaner liquefied natural gas (LNG). Per reports, the ship was designed and built with fully independent intellectual property rights, showing the nation’s growing capability in advanced shipbuilding technology.

According to Chinese media, industry observers have said that progress in developing clean-energy vessels is expected to have a significant influence on the global shipping industry and could help accelerate the transition towards sustainability across the maritime sector.

The GNV·VIRGO has 12 decks equipped with a range of passenger amenities, including a self-service restaurant, café, and observation lounge. It contains 485 cabins and can accommodate up to 1,800 passengers and over 550 vehicles.

Designed primarily for short-sea transportation, the vessel is expected to connect islands and coastal cities, improving convenience for both travellers and vehicles.

Video Credits: CGTN/Facebook

Per reports, all interior fittings of the vessel were produced domestically, achieving complete localisation in its design and build. Following delivery, the dual-fuel passenger ship will operate on the route between Genoa and Palermo in Italy.

The ship’s launch comes amid other recent technological breakthroughs in China. On 22 October, the first satellite fully assembled in Xiong’an New Area, Xiong’an-1, was completed.

Reports say the satellite includes three innovations: a high-performance onboard computer, large flexible solar wings, and a new-generation electric propulsion system. These upgrades improve computing power, energy efficiency, and propulsion, supporting more capable and intelligent communication satellites.

Additionally, China’s Zhuque-3 reusable rocket has entered final preparation for its first flight after completing a fuelling rehearsal and static ignition test.

The rocket is 66.1 metres tall, has a take-off mass of around 570 tonnes, and a thrust of more than 750 tonnes. It can perform orbital launches and return for a soft landing to be reused.

China has already tested vertical take-off and landing rockets up to 10 kilometres, and this year multiple reusable rockets, including Zhuque-3 and Tianlong-3, are expected to carry out maiden flights.

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021–2025), the country has achieved several “from zero to one” breakthroughs, strengthening technological self-reliance.

References: CGTN, globaltimes

Source: Maritime Shipping News